Last updated 8th October 2024

Safer Recruitment: DBS

'We will carefully select, support and train all those with any responsibility within the Church , in line with Safer Recruitment Principles, including the use of criminal records disclosures and barring schemes'

Church of England Joint Policy Statement on Safer Recruitment

This guidance should be read in conjunction with the Diocesan safeguarding policies and associated guidance contained within the Diocese of Blackburn Safeguarding Policy and the full national guidelines are available for further information –Practice Guidance: Safer Recruitment and People Management 2021

DBS Checks in light of COVID-19 - Important Information:

Safer Recruitment and Safer Recruitment – Permission to Officiate remain in effect and despite the worrying situation with COVID-19, dioceses obviously still need to put in place DBS renewal arrangements for clergy and church officers in their area. The Government has published guidance with advice on viewing identity documents remotely.

The new guidance from the Disclosure and Barring Service providing clarity on viewing documnets remotely can be found here:

The Blackburn Diocese Disclosure and Barring service is now provided by Thirtyone:eight. Each church will have to register individually to access the system.

To apply to use the Thirtyone:eight E-bulk, please complete the Thirtyone:eight Diocese of Blackburn Disclosure Registration Form and the Thirtyone:eight New Recruiter Appointment Form.

Important notice: All Registration / New Recruiter Forms are scanned and emailed to safeguarding@blackburn.anglican.org or posted to: Clayton House, Walker Office Park, Blackburn, BB1 2QE.

Before registration any administrative enquires can be dealt with by the Safeguarding Administrator on 01254 503088 or safeguarding@blackburn.anglican.org

After registration Thirtyone:eight should be contacted directly on 0303 003 11 11